This release was issued under a previous government.
As part of National Child Abuse Prevention month, the Government of Alberta is reinforcing its commitment to work with community partners to support children and families.
Human Services is extending $164,519 in grant funding through the Family and community Safety Program to ASSIST Community Services Centre in Edmonton. Its project, Strengthening Child Safety with New Immigrant Families, helps parents and caregivers keep their children safe from bullying, cyberbullying and exposure to family violence. The program has benefited 275 adults and 500 children from diverse backgrounds.
ASSIST Community Services delivers the program through its community partners, which include The Today Family Violence Centre, Boys and Girls Big Brothers and Sisters of Edmonton, the City of Edmonton and the Alliance Jeunesse-Famille de l’Alberta Society.
“Child abuse devastates families and communities. We all have a responsibility to prevent abuse and ensure that survivors and those who love them have the supports they need to heal. Our government is proud to partner with ASSIST Community Services in its critical work of preventing abuse and supporting survivors.”
“I’m so grateful to have ASSIST making a difference in the lives of so many children and families in my community, and proud to be part of a government committed to a brighter future for Alberta’s children. I thank the Minister for this important investment in preventing child abuse in Edmonton.”
“Our organization is thrilled to receive additional funding so we can continue our project. We know that providing linguistically and culturally appropriate resources and one-on-one support is valuable for the parents and caregivers using our services. They are better equipped to promote and provide a safe and healthy environment for their children and families as they connect to their new community.”
“At the Alliance Jeunesse-Famille de l’Alberta Society, we know that new immigrant families and children experience unique challenges and opportunities. Child safety is important for family well-being. We are happy to partner with ASSIST Community Services in the delivery of its valuable program through our project Building Protective Mechanisms for African Francophone Families.”
Quick facts
- Anyone with concerns about a child being abused or neglected should contact their local Human Services Office, Delegated First Nations Agency or police.
- The confidential Child Abuse hotline is available at 1-800-387-KIDS (5437), 24 hours a day, seven days a week.